Derivation of non-Newtonian squeeze-film Reynolds equation between convex surfaces and application to two different cylinders

Abstract

The derivation of non-Newtonian squeeze-film Reynolds-type equation between two convex surfaces and its application are of interest in the present study. Based upon the Stokes micro-continuum theory, the non-Newtonian squeeze-film Reynolds-type equation between two convex surfaces is derived to take into account the effects of couple stresses resulting from the lubricant blended with various additives. This non-Newtonian squeeze-film Reynolds-type equation is applicable to squeeze-film bearings lubricated with couple stress fluids when the general upper film shape and the lower film shape are specified. To guide the use of the equation, the squeeze-film mechanism between two different cylinders of infinite width with non-Newtonian couple stress fluids is illustrated. Comparing with the Newtonian-lubricant case, the presence of non-Newtonian couple stresses provides an increase in the load-carrying capacity, and therefore lengthens the approaching time. In addition, the effects of couple stresses on the squeeze film characteristics are more pronounced at lower squeeze-film height with larger couple stress parameters and larger radius ratios of cylinders. As the value of radius ratio approaches infinity, the present results agree closely with those of the previous studies by Hamrock [6] and by Lin et al. [19], respectively; it provides a support to the present study.